Distinct Pain Signature Seen in People With Fibromyalgia

Historically, fibromyalgia (FM) lacks a definitive explanation for its underlying mechanisms of action,1 and has little consensus on objective, consistent physiological characteristics to define the condition for patients and physicians.2

Given the range of widespread, generalized symptoms, making a diagnosis of FM poses an ongoing challenge, despite its prevalence.3 Findings published in the journal Pain, offer valuable insight into the neurological underpinnings of FM.4

“I think looking at the brain can certainly be a clinical tool,” said Tor D. Wager, PhD, director of cognitive and affective neuroscience laboratory at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

“The challenge is finding well-defined targets,” Dr. Wager told Practical Pain Management. “It can kind of be like looking for a needle in a haystack.”

By mapping the neurological patterns seen in the brains of patients with FM researchers may be able to identify neural characteristics unique to this systemic condition, essentially create a “brain signature.”